The undersigned groups strongly oppose H.R.1606, sponsored by Representative Jeb Hensarling (R-TX), which would open huge new loopholes for corrupt soft money to be used by federal candidates, parties, corporations, labor unions and wealthy donors in federal campaigns.

H.R. 1606 is controversial legislation that is scheduled for a suspension calendar vote on Wednesday in a stealth attack with little notice.

We, the undersigned groups, strongly urge you to reject a proposed effort in the House to kill the presidential public financing system, enacted following the Watergate scandals to protect the American people against corruption of the presidency and presidential decisions.

The groups include the Campaign Legal Center, Common Cause, Democracy 21, the League of Women Voters, Public Citizen and U.S.PIRG.

As have all Americans, we have witnessed with grief and frustration the loss of life, homes, and livelihood in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. We are part of the human needs community. Many of us are providing people and resources to help those so harshly affected, especially low-income individuals and families. We write concerning the ways Congress should address the nation’s needs at this time.